Toward high quality tactile sensors using ZnO/P(VDF-TrFE) flexible piezoelectric composite films

In this research, ZnO/P(VDF-TrFE) piezoelectric composites are fabricated in different concentrations by two methods, spray coating and casting. Crystallinity, surface morphology, and piezoelectric performance of such films were analyzed and resulted in the optimal properties of 20 wt% ZnO in casted films (d₃₃ = 48.93 pm V⁻¹). The high sensitivity (18.5 mV N⁻¹) of such piezoelectric films as tactile sensors was observed by performing two experiments, as a sensor in a gripping robot, and as a wearable device, monitoring the movement in the human arm. The research highlights the intricate relationship between crystallinity, β-phase content, piezoelectric coefficient, and sensor performance, underscoring the role of factors like stress distribution and mechanical behavior in determining overall efficacy.